Prices of key food items surged across local markets this week, placing a heavy burden on consumers already grappling with inflation.

Market surveys revealed a stark contrast between the government-fixed rates and actual retail prices, with sellers charging far above official price lists for poultry, vegetables, and fruits.

The rate of live chicken jumped by Rs45 per kilogramme, reaching an official range of Rs289-303 per kg. However, vendors were seen selling live poultry for as much as Rs420 per kg. Chicken meat, officially fixed at Rs439, was retailed at Rs500-580 per kg. Boneless chicken prices surged to Rs1,000-1,100 per kg in various city markets.

Vegetables also saw widespread price hikes. The official price of A-grade soft skin potatoes rose by Rs10 to Rs70-75 per kg but were sold at nearly double — Rs140-150 per kg. Similarly, A-grade onions fixed at Rs40-45 per kg were retailed at Rs80 per kg. Seasonal fruits mirrored the same trend. Apples of various grades were fixed at Rs295-440 per kg but sold at Rs350-800 per kg.